The Cubs simply have to find a way to start beating the Reds, because this is getting old. Here’s their very new-look lineup for Game 2 (of 3) against the righty, Anthony DeSclafani.
Chicago Cubs Lineup:
- Kyle Schwarber, LF
- Javy Baez, SS
- Kris Bryant, 3B
- Anthony Rizzo, 1B
- Robel Garcia, 2B
- Jason Heyward, RF
- Albert Almora Jr., CF
- Martin Maldonado, C
- Alec Mills, P
Against DeSclafani, the Cubs will throw only four batters from the left-side of the plate (Schwarber, Rizzo, Garcia, Heyward), which is a real shame, given DeSclafani’s splits this season:
Versus lefties: .309/.376/.591 (.396 wOBA)
Versus righties: .219/.256/.356 (.256 wOBA)
I know Caratini just started last night and didn’t have the best game – and I also know that Joe Maddon loves to get new Cubs into the starting lineup ASAP – but this sure seems like a good night to have your switch-hitting catcher in the starting nine. Oh, well.
Along the same lines … what is Daniel Descalso even doing on this team anymore? If his left-handed bat can’t get a start against splits this big, will he ever get another start? And if not, I’ll re-ask: What is he really doing here? Surely, the Cubs can manage to get a better left-handed bat to play average-ish second base *or* a corner outfield spot for moments like this. That way you can get Albert Almora’s bat out of the lineup tonight in favor of someone who’s better set up for success.
I still love my Cubs, but this lineup/roster is just so strange right now (especially without Willson Contreras). Let’s hope they can get it done anyway. And as usual, we’ll have your full Pre-Gamin’ post closer to game time (7:05 CT).